The Best Laser Sights for AR-15
If you’re a proud owner of an AR-15, you’ve probably considered spicing up your shooting experience with a laser sight. They’re not just for show – a great laser sight can significantly enhance your target acquisition speed and overall accuracy. But with the sea of options out there, how do you pick the right one? No worries, we’ve got your back! This article is here to guide you through the best laser sights for AR-15s and give you a rundown of what to look out for when buying one.
What’s Important in an AR-15 Laser?
Let’s talk a little bit about what you need to know before jumping in and buying an expensive (or inexpensive) laser sight for your AR.
Ease of Installation
First up, let’s chat about installation. You don’t want a laser sight that requires an engineering degree to attach to your rifle. Look for sights with simple, user-friendly mounting systems that can attach to standard Picatinny or Weaver-style rails. Most AR-15s come equipped with these, so you should be good to go. A sight that’s easy to mount will save you time and let you get back to what you love doing – shooting!
Visibility and Range
Next up, visibility and range. Not all lasers are created equal, and this is especially true when it comes to their visibility. Green lasers tend to be more visible than red ones, especially in brighter conditions. As for range, make sure the laser sight offers a clear and precise aiming point at the distances you usually shoot. Remember, a laser sight’s effectiveness is heavily influenced by its range and visibility, so keep this in mind when making your choice.
Durability and Resilience
Let’s not forget about durability and resilience. Your laser sight needs to be tough enough to withstand the recoil of an AR-15 and robust enough to handle the elements if you’re an outdoor shooter. Look for sights that are shock, dust, and water-resistant – these features will ensure your sight can take a beating and keep on ticking.
Battery Life and Operation Modes
Battery life and operation modes are also crucial considerations. You don’t want a sight that’s going to run out of juice in the middle of a shooting session. Consider sights with good battery life and preferably ones that offer different operation modes, like constant on, strobe, or momentary. This will give you the versatility to adapt to various shooting scenarios.
Price and Value
Finally, price and value. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that with laser sights, you often get what you pay for. Balance cost with the features and performance you’re getting. Sometimes, it’s worth shelling out a little more for a sight that will last and perform better in the long run.
Laser Color
Here’s a hot topic that’s worth discussing – the color of the laser. You’ve probably noticed that laser sights come in two main colors: red and green. But what’s the difference, and does it really matter? Well, in a nutshell, yes, it does!
Visibility
When it comes to visibility, green lasers generally have the upper hand. The human eye is more sensitive to light in the green spectrum, meaning a green laser will typically appear brighter and more noticeable, especially in daylight conditions. Red lasers, while still effective, may be harder to see in bright light. However, they often perform just as well as green lasers in low-light or night-time scenarios.
Laser Color vs. Battery Life
However, the color isn’t just about visibility. It also impacts battery life. Green lasers consume more power than red lasers, meaning they might drain your batteries faster. So, if you’re planning to use your laser sight extensively or over prolonged periods, a red laser might be more energy-efficient. But remember, advancements in technology are continually improving the battery life of green lasers, so don’t rule them out just yet!
Price Point of Red vs. Green Lasers
Lastly, let’s touch on price. Green lasers, with their superior visibility, often come with a higher price tag than their red counterparts. But is it worth the extra bucks? Well, that depends on your specific needs and shooting conditions. If you frequently shoot in bright, daylight conditions, shelling out a bit more for a green laser might be a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, if you’re more of a dusk till dawn or indoor range shooter, a red laser should serve you just fine and save you some change.
Choosing the right laser sight for your AR-15 can significantly enhance your shooting experience. With these considerations in mind, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect laser sight for your needs. Stay tuned as we delve into our top picks for the best laser sights for AR-15s in the next section!
Our Top Picks for The Best AR-15 Laser Sights
We based our picks on product reviews across the web, functionality, brightness, reliability, build-quality, weight and first-hand experience with each product. Our choices below reflect the absolute best laser sights available for the AR-15 on the market today.
Crimson Trace CMR-206
Let’s be honest, we all want our gear to perform at its best when we’re out on the range or in the field. And that’s why I’m here, to tell you about my personal experience with the Crimson Trace CMR-206. I’ve been using this green laser sight on my AR-15 for a while now, and it’s been nothing short of outstanding.
Easy Installation
First things first, the installation. This rail-equipped wonder is incredibly easy to mount, with a simple attachment mechanism that’s compatible with the Picatinny and Weaver-style rails commonly found on modern rifles. I had it secured to my AR-15 in no time, straight out of the box, without any need for a gunsmith. It’s a straightforward process, and that’s a significant plus when you’re eager to get out there and test your new toy.
The Best Laser Visibility
Now, let’s talk about visibility. The CMR-206 sports a vibrant green laser that’s crystal clear, even in broad daylight. Green lasers are known for their superior visibility compared to red ones, and this model is no exception. I’ve put it through its paces at various distances, and the laser’s held up remarkably well. Whether you’re shooting at close-quarters or longer ranges, this sight provides a precise aiming point, improving your confidence and accuracy with every shot.
Crimson Trace Build Quality
Build quality is another area where the CMR-206 shines. It feels solid and durable, with a robust construction that can handle the recoil of an AR-15 with ease. I’ve taken it out on several hunting trips, exposed it to the elements, and it’s withstood all the rough and tumble you’d expect in the great outdoors. It’s dust and shock-resistant, and the water-resistant feature ensures it functions even in less than ideal weather conditions.
Excellent Adjustment Dials
The adjustable windage and elevation dials are another great feature. They’re user-friendly and make zeroing in the laser a cinch. Even better, the sight has maintained its zero, even after hundreds of rounds, which is quite impressive. I’ve had issues with other sights losing their zero after repeated use, but this is one area where the CMR-206 surpasses the competition.
Operating Modes
The CMR-206 also boasts three operation modes – momentary, strobe, and continuous – offering versatility to suit different shooting scenarios. The controls are instinctive, with an ambidextrous switch that makes it easy to operate, regardless of whether you’re a righty or a lefty.
Battery Performance
When it comes to battery life, the CMR-206 does a decent job. It’s powered by one 1/3N Lithium or two 357 Silver Oxide batteries, which offer up to two hours of runtime. I’ve used the sight quite a bit, and I’m yet to replace the batteries. The automatic shut-off feature after five minutes of inactivity is another thoughtful addition that helps to conserve battery life.
Quality Comes with a Cost
Now, it’s worth noting that the CMR-206 comes with a bit of a hefty price tag. But after using it for several months, I can confidently say that it’s a worthy investment. The superior build quality, excellent visibility, easy installation, and impressive performance more than justify the cost.
So, if you’re in the market for a reliable, high-quality laser sight that will take your shooting to the next level, I’d highly recommend the Crimson Trace CMR-206. It’s a compact powerhouse that’s proven its worth in every aspect, and has firmly secured its place on my AR-15.
Streamlight TLR-2 HL G
I’ve been using this high lumen tactical light and laser combo on my AR-15 for several months now, and it’s proven to be a game-changer.
Installation
Let’s start with the installation. The TLR-2 HL G employs a “snap-on and tighten” interface, which is as simple as it sounds. You don’t need any special tools or a degree in rocket science to get this beauty attached to your firearm. I had it firmly locked onto my AR-15’s rail in a matter of minutes, and it has stayed rock solid ever since.
Super-Bright Light
Now, let’s talk about the shining star of the show, the light. This gadget pumps out an intense 800 lumens of white light that cuts through the darkness like a hot knife through butter. Whether you’re navigating a dimly lit area or identifying a potential threat, this light has got you covered. I’ve used it in various low-light situations, and it’s been a reliable ally every single time.
Laser Quality
The green laser that comes with the TLR-2 HL G is nothing to scoff at either. It’s remarkably visible, even in brighter conditions, providing a crisp and precise aiming point. I’ve tried it out at different distances, and it’s been consistently reliable, helping to improve my accuracy considerably.
Aluminum Construction
One of the standout features of the TLR-2 HL G is its rugged build. This beast is made from machined aluminum with a black anodized finish, and it can handle the recoil of my AR-15 without any hiccups. It’s water-resistant, dustproof, and shockproof, making it a perfect companion for outdoor use. I’ve taken it on a few hunting trips, and it’s stood up to the challenge beautifully.
Operating Modes
The TLR-2 HL G offers three modes: laser only, LED illumination only, or both, and the controls are easy to use. The ambidextrous switch makes it a breeze to operate, regardless of whether you’re right or left-handed.
Battery Life
As for battery life, the TLR-2 HL G runs on two CR123A batteries and offers a continuous runtime of about 1.5 hours when using both the light and laser. It’s been quite a while since I’ve had to replace the batteries, even with considerable use. The built-in strobe function, which can be enabled or disabled based on your preference, is a nifty feature that adds to its versatility.
Price Point
Price-wise, the TLR-2 HL G is on the steeper end, but given its performance and quality, I’d say it’s worth the investment. It’s a sturdy, reliable, and high-performing piece of equipment that has significantly improved my shooting experience.
Viridian X5L Gen 3
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 is a highly versatile and powerful laser sight and tactical light combo designed to enhance the functionality of your AR-15. The sight boasts a bright green laser, providing superior visibility and accuracy across different shooting ranges. Alongside the laser, it houses a 500-lumen tactical light, perfect for low-light environments.
Installation of the X5L Gen 3
The X5L Gen 3 comes with a Universal Mounting System that made attaching it to my AR-15 rail a breeze. I didn’t need any specialized tools or skills, and within minutes, it was securely fastened and ready for action.
Awesome Tactical Light
The tactical light on the X5L Gen 3 is nothing short of impressive. It delivers a powerful 500 lumens of brilliant white light, more than enough to illuminate any low-light environment. I’ve used it in a variety of dimly-lit situations, and it’s always provided excellent visibility, aiding in navigation and target identification.
Laser Quality on the X5L
The green laser doesn’t disappoint either. It’s remarkably vibrant, providing a sharp, clear aiming point even in bright daylight. I’ve put it to the test at different ranges, and it’s consistently held up, offering an enhanced level of precision that’s truly appreciated.
It’s a Tough Laser/Light Combo for Your AR
What I particularly love about the X5L Gen 3 is its rugged construction. It’s built from high-strength thermomolded polymer, which means it’s not just lightweight, but also robust enough to handle the recoil from my AR-15. Its water-resistant and shock-resistant features make it a reliable companion for outdoor use. I’ve exposed it to various elements on my hunting trips, and it’s proven its mettle every single time.
Operating Modes
The X5L Gen 3 offers multiple operation modes, including constant laser, strobe laser, constant light, strobe light, or any combination of these, giving you the versatility to adapt to different situations. The controls are user-friendly and the instant-on feature, which activates the light and laser when you draw your firearm, is a real game-changer.
Battery Life
Battery-wise, the X5L Gen 3 runs on a rechargeable lithium battery, offering up to 6 hours of constant laser runtime, 60 minutes of light and laser, and several hours in pulse mode. I’ve been using it extensively, and I haven’t had to recharge it frequently, which is a big plus.
Final Verdict
Yes, the Viridian X5L Gen 3 comes with a higher price tag, but considering its performance, durability, and the features it packs, I believe it’s worth the investment. It’s a sturdy, reliable, and versatile piece of equipment that’s significantly enhanced my shooting experience.
Holosun LS117G
The Holosun LS117G is a compact and rugged green laser sight designed to improve the accuracy and targeting speed of your AR-15. Made from high-quality aluminum, this sight is built to withstand recoil and harsh outdoor conditions, boasting water-resistant and dustproof features.
The sight employs a vibrant green laser, offering excellent visibility and precision at various distances. It comes with a straightforward Picatinny rail mount for easy installation, runs on a single CR123A battery, and features a constant-on mode for versatile use. Considering its robust build, reliable performance, and mid-range price point, the LS117G offers great value for AR-15 owners.
Installation Simplicity
Jumping right in, let me tell you, mounting the Holosun LS117G on my AR-15 was a breeze. The sight comes with a handy Picatinny rail mount that made installation a cakewalk. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I could secure it to my rifle without any specialized tools. The moment I had it on, I could tell that this rugged piece of kit was here to stay.
Precision and Range
When it comes to precision and range, the LS117G doesn’t disappoint. The sight’s green laser is incredibly vibrant, offering a sharp, clear aiming point that dramatically improved my targeting speed and accuracy. I’ve tried it out at varying distances, and each time it’s proven to be reliable and consistent. Whether at close quarters or longer ranges, the LS117G made target acquisition a whole lot easier.
Built to Last
I’ve been particularly impressed with the LS117G’s durability. This robust gadget, made from high-quality aluminum, takes the recoil of the AR-15 in stride. And it’s not just the recoil it can handle – the sight’s water-resistant and dustproof features make it an excellent choice for outdoor shooting. It’s accompanied me on a number of trips in the great outdoors, and not once has it shown signs of faltering.
Battery Life and Operation
The Holosun LS117G runs on a single CR123A battery, and so far, the battery life has been commendable. I’ve yet to encounter any power issues even after hours of use. The sight also offers a constant-on mode, and the controls are straightforward and intuitive. Adjusting the laser’s intensity to suit my needs has been as simple as pie.
Bang for Your Buck
Price-wise, the LS117G sits comfortably in the mid-range category. Considering the sight’s build quality, performance, and the features it brings to the table, I believe it offers great value for money. It’s a dependable, high-performing piece of gear that’s enhanced my shooting experience without burning a hole in my pocket.
LaserMax Spartan
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly, compact laser sight for your AR-15, let me introduce you to the LaserMax Spartan. This little gem has been a part of my shooting gear for quite some time now, and I’ve got to say, it’s more than impressed me. Don’t let its modest price tag fool you – the Spartan packs a punch and offers features that rival some of its higher-priced competitors. Let’s dive into my experience with the LaserMax Spartan and why I believe it’s a great addition to any AR-15 setup.
Installs on Any Rail System
Right out of the gate, one of the standout features of the LaserMax Spartan is how easy it is to install. This sight comes with an innovative Rail Vise Design that makes mounting it to my AR-15 a breeze. It can easily attach to either Picatinny or Weaver-style rails, providing a secure and stable fit. In a matter of minutes, I had the Spartan ready to roll.
Red Laser Quality
The Spartan’s red laser is no slouch when it comes to visibility and precision. This compact laser sight delivers a bright, clear dot that has significantly improved my targeting speed and accuracy. Whether at the range or in the field, the Spartan has consistently provided a reliable aiming point, even at longer distances.
Durability
Durability is another key feature of the LaserMax Spartan. It’s built to last, with a high-strength thermoplastic housing that’s stood up to the recoil of my AR-15 and the occasional bumps and knocks of outdoor shooting. Plus, its water-resistant design gives me peace of mind during those unexpected rain showers. I won’t trust it to last forever though compared to some of the more expensive lasers on this list.
Uses a AAA Battery
As for battery life, the Spartan operates on a single AAA battery, which is a big bonus. No more hunting for those hard-to-find, expensive batteries! The sight’s Auto-off feature, which powers down the unit after 10 minutes, helps prolong battery life, ensuring the Spartan is always ready when I need it.
Cheap But Still Good
In conclusion, the LaserMax Spartan is a worthy contender if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly laser sight for your AR-15. It’s easy to install, delivers great visibility and precision, and is built to withstand the rigors of shooting. For its price, the Spartan delivers far more than what you’d expect, making it an excellent investment for any shooter.
Which Laser Sight is Right for Your AR?
There are many laser sights available for the AR-15, and choosing the right one can be a daunting task. It’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences when selecting a laser sight. Factors such as budget, performance, durability, and ease of use should be taken into account. We also recommend going with a green laser as it’s easier to see in the daylight. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for with laser sights where spending a little bit extra can mean a huge difference in quality.